The societal effects of rapidly changing technologies signal the need for an educational system combining the best in vocational and academic learning. Career paths join a liberal arts academic core with hands-on technological options. A New Hampshire high school's tech-prep/school-to-work partnership with local higher education institutions and a…

Describes five possible future developments for customized training: creating consortia between colleges and business training centers; establishing instructional design centers with faculty functioning as knowledge choreographers to provide up-to-date services; creating intergenerational service learning programs; implementing total quality…

The Toronto area Learning Consortium, a partnership among two universities and four school districts, was established in 1988. The partnership's success hinges on several factors, including long-term commitment, stable finances, university faculty credibility, and a collegial management model. Consortium activities have mobilized a critical mass…

Investigates the urban public community college system to assess its contributions to educational reforms, especially in the area of vocational education. The authors include an analysis of the role of tech-prep in school-to-work transition programs. (GR)

Discussion of instructional materials that teach knowledge and skills needed for technical training focuses on cooperative development between U.S. and Canadian educators and the Agency for Instructional Technology (AIT) to produce the "Math Works" and "Principles of Technology" materials. Learning skills are discussed, and…

The State University of New York at Buffalo dental school's reform of basic science curriculum is discussed. The paper first outlines the curriculum review/development process, focusing on incorporation of specific competencies, computer-based curriculum analysis, and the role of a dental schools consortium. The paper then looks at future…

Describes collaborations supported by the National Science Foundation among industry, higher education, elementary and secondary schools, and other institutions to develop and test applications of computer and communication networks in support of innovations in science and math education. Highlights include descriptions of four pilot testbeds and…

This is the executive summary of a project conducted by the Federation of American Research Networks and the Consortium for School Networking that considered ways to support and promote school networking and formulated recommendations for the National Science Foundation. Highlights include educational reform, partnerships with industry, and a…

Discussion of libraries in Russia focuses on science and medical libraries. Topics addressed include historical background; library science education; a consortium formed to build national databases and disseminate information; producers of scientific and medical information; international cooperation; interlibrary loans; the Russian Medical…

A consortium comprised of a technologically advanced suburban high school, a struggling urban high school, and a resourceful private college has helped the two high schools publish an online magazine, develop interdisciplinary projects, and prepare submissions to an online chemistry magazine. Linking high- and low-achieving schools benefitted all…

Describes a faculty initiative involving twelve Pennsylvania State University colleges, its library system, and two historically black colleges (Cheyney and Lincoln Universities) in the design of distance-education programs, and presents a set of principles and practices developed by the faculty that address issues in design and development of a…

The experience of college consortia suggests that success and sustainability depend on high-level leadership and commitment; clear mission and goals; balance mechanisms for assuring parity of participants; decision-making ability; a third-party, neutral function; adequate funding; clear cost-sharing arrangements; mechanisms for measuring success;…

Discusses the growth of library consortia that has been largely driven by the rise in cost and quantity of electronic journals and products. Highlights include activities in addition to purchasing agreements, including staff development, distance learning, and minority recruitment; national consortia; database pricing; vendor opinions;…

Reviews the history of distance education in South Dakota. Highlights include interactive videoconferencing on the Digital Dakota Network (DDN); four video consortiums for K-12 schools; the Rural Development Telecommunications Network; the Electronic University Consortium; higher Education opportunities via the Internet, satellites,…

States have had to budget increasing amounts for mandated pupil-transportation services as their state transportation aid has been slashed dramatically. Among school districts, cooperation and coordination through shared services (consortia) have resulted in safer, more reliable, and more efficient transportation. Implementation advice is…